55John Lennon

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty ImagesWhenRolling Stonefounder Jann S. Wenner askedJohn Lennonhow he rated himself as a guitarist, Lennon replied, "I'm not technically good, but I can make it fucking howl and move. I was rhythm guitarist. It's an important job. I can make a band drive." It is, and he did: Lennon was the Beatles' spark plug and bloodletter, often adding rawness to pristine pop songs. Listen to the airborne strums that power "Help!," the circular riffage of "Day Tripper" or the deceptively sloppy "The Ballad of John and Yoko" where, withGeorge Harrisonaway on holiday, Lennon turned rudimentary lead and rhythm lines into sharptoothed magic. He was also capable of generating a truly ferocious tone: In the live promo clip for "Revolution," Lennon makes his hollow-body EpiphoneCASINOscreech like a very angry lawn mower. Still, he didn't get his due as a guitarist in theBeatles' heyday. "They call George the invisible singer," Lennon said. "I am the invisible guitar player."Key Tracks:"Help!," "Day Tripper," "Yer Blues"

56Albert Collins

Charlie Gillett Collection/RedfernsIn 1968,Jimi Hendrixtalked about his love for a Houston blues luminary who wasn't known outside the region: "There's one cat I'm still trying to get across to people. He is really good, one of the best guitarists in the world." Albert Collins, who died of lung cancer in 1993, played with his thumb and forefinger instead of a pick to put a muscular snap into his piercing, trebly solos. His fluid, inventive playing influenced Hendrix, sometimes overtly: Jimi liked Collins' sustain in the song "Collins Shuffle" so much that he used it on "Voodoo Chile."Key Tracks:"Frosty," "Sno-Cone Part 1"

v57Rory Gallagher

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images"It seems a waste to me to work and work for years," Rory Gallagher toldRolling Stonein 1972, "and just turn into some sort of personality." Instead, the Irish guitarist, then only 23, became legendary for his nonstop-touring ethic and fiery craft. Playing a weathered Strat, often wearing a flannel shirt, Gallagher electrified Chicago and Delta styles with scalding slide work and hard-boiled songwriting. His fans included the Edge andBob Dylan, who was initially turned away backstage at a 1978 show because Gallagher didn't recognize him.Key Tracks:"Bullfrog Blues," "Laundromat," "Walk on Hot Coals"